Biosolids

Biosolids are the stabilised, nutrient rich, organic solid residues generated from wastewater treatment processing, which in most cases can be used beneficially.

Wastewater consists of wastes primarily from household activities such as the kitchen, dishwasher, laundry and bath.

Strict state and federal regulations ensure biosolids are an excellent source of safe inorganic nutrients.

Only biosolids that meet strict quality standards for pollutants, and pathogens can be land-applied for beneficial purposes. All other biosolids must be disposed in a landfill or further processed (as composts, mulch, soil mix) until they meet the quality standard. The Water Corporation has partnered with Sita Environmental Solutions in a joint venture initiative called BioWise to produce premium quality compost utilising biosolids.

Substances that are not included under the term biosolids are animal manures, untreated septage (septic tanks), municipal solid waste and untreated wastewater sludges, hazardous wastes, industrial sludges (oil refinery and waste) and grit and screenings removed during the initial wastewater treatment process.